Thai Prime Minister Meets Former Japanese PM Kishida to Discuss Automotive Production Base and EV Supply Chain Cooperation

Brickinfo News Agency – Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul held bilateral talks with former Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida at Government House on October 12, 2026, focusing on automotive industry stability, electric vehicle (EV) supply chain integration, and clean energy transition.

Government Spokesperson Ekkapob Pientpiset stated that the meeting addressed Japanese concerns regarding the impact of imported EVs on domestic vehicle manufacturing. In response, Prime Minister Anutin outlined Thailand’s excise tax policies on imported EVs and confirmed the government’s approach to protect traditional automotive manufacturing while advancing local EV assembly. The Prime Minister formally invited Japanese automakers to integrate Thailand into their regional EV supply chains to secure long-term industrial investment and skilled employment.

The dialogue also addressed bilateral energy transition frameworks to reduce carbon emissions. The Japanese delegation confirmed readiness to facilitate technological transfers in clean energy and energy-efficiency systems to support Thailand’s transition toward a low-carbon economy. Both leaders further acknowledged upcoming diplomatic milestones, specifically the 140th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Thailand and Japan scheduled for 2027.